Alcoa has inaugurated a $71.8 million raw materials handling facility.
The aluminium producer and the Trois Rivières Port Authority (TRPA) officially inaugurated Alcoa's new facility at Pier 17, at Trois Rivières, which will be used to unload raw materials for its Deschambault aluminium smelter, Quebec, Canada.
The modernised infrastructure makes it possible to receive alumina and calcined coke destined for the smelter.
The event, held in the presence of community partners, included the presentation of a video retracing the key stages of the project and the integration of the new equipment.
The project includes the acquisition of two fully electric, closed-loop pneumatic unloading gantry cranes.
Delivered by ship last autumn, this equipment allows for increased unloading efficiency, better operational stability and a reduction in the environmental footprint.
Since the commissioning in January, nine unloads have already been completed.
Thanks to a long-term agreement, the handling area at Pier 17 is now exclusively dedicated to Alcoa's operations, ensuring stability, safety and continuity of operations for years to come.
Pascal Rochette, General Manager, Alcoa – Deschambault Aluminum Smelter, said: "This major investment in the Port of Trois Rivières strengthens the competitiveness and sustainability of our aluminium smelter, while allowing us to improve the reception of our raw materials through state-of-the-art equipment and more sustainable practices.
"Carried out in compliance with the highest standards in health, safety and the environment, the project also made it possible to train our teams and develop expertise that is essential for the future.
"This achievement is a testament to the quality of the collaboration between our employees, the Port Authority and our partners, and our commitment to contribute responsibly to the development of our region and to building a lasting legacy for future generations."